Hubbard Bowers

TOP TEN REASONS TO LIVE IN COLUMBIA 1. Southern Hospitality. One visit to the area and you will discover a special feeling of grace and charm. This southern hospitality is our way of life. 2. Affordability. Not only is Columbia full of hospitality, it is also full of things to see and do at a price you can afford. A trip to our area is easy on the wallet while appetizing to the mind and body. 3. Dining & Nightlife. You would need a month to enjoy all of the dining & nightlife hotspots found in Columbia's thriving specialty districts! 4. Did someone say Shopping? Columbia's specialty districts carry everything from exclusive labels to one of a kind creations. Whether you're on a college budget or ready to spend a small fortune on your wardrobe, Columbia's unique shops and boutiques have what you're looking for. 5. Parks, Gardens & Outdoors. Did you know Columbia is home to a National Park? Congaree National Park hosts a wide array of animal and plant life such as the 'old growth' forest, drawing international visitors eager to walk among the ancient redwoods. Lake Murray is Columbia's largest body of water providing tourists and residents the endless opportunities for fun in the way of boating, fishing, sailing, jet skiing, and more! Columbia is proud to have three rivers flowing throughout our region, perfect for canoeing or kayaking, or leisurely strolls riverside on our extensive Greenway walking trail system. Need a day at the park? In Columbia you'll have over 35 parks to choose from! Explore Saluda Shoals Park or enjoy a picnic at downtown's Finlay Park. 6. Columbia Museum of Art. The Museum is South Carolina's premier international art museum with extraordinary collections of European and American fine and decorative art that span centuries. Founded in 1950, the museum opened its new building on Main Street in 1988 by transforming an urban department store into a sleek and airy, light-filled space with 25 galleries. 7. Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden & EdVenture Children's Museum. Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is home to more than 2,000 animals that represent over 350 species from around the world. Our zoo is one of the top rated in the country. EdVenture Children's Museum is the largest children's museum in the South. Themes like 'My Backyard' are appealing to children and grownups alike. 8. Performing Arts & Culture. Enjoy the arts scene capital city style! On almost any night in the region, visitors and residents can enjoy a musical, ballet or theatrical performance. There's something for all ages...performances range from traditional to contemporary. 9. Rich In History. Although Columbia is in a renaissance period with growth and development flourishing, our history still remains alive within the city through the preservation of our past. Historical buildings and markers are carefully interwoven throughout the city blending the old with the new. 10. Our Festivals & Parades. Greek Festival, St. Pats, and more! There's one thing to know about Columbians and that is our residents love to have a good time by celebrating our emerging cultures. Year round Columbia hosts numerous parades and festival. Our Greek Festival, Jubilee Festival of African Americans, and our St. Patty's Day parade are just a few.